We are honored to announce that beginning April 1, 2022, Hunterdon County YMCA and YMCA of Bucks County will become one combined organization. This is an exciting time for our organizations and we are thrilled to be making it official. Though we are now merged, there are many logistical items, tasks and processes that will take time to sort out. We ask all staff to keep this in mind while we move forward, as these processes require patience and understanding to diligently complete.
Important dates to note:
Mar 25 - members and program participants notified
Mar 28 - community and media notified
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does it mean to be merged?
From August 1, 2021 until now, Hunterdon County YMCA operated in a management agreement with YMCA of Bucks County under the leadership of Zane Moore, president and CEO of YMCA of Bucks County. During that time a board-led exploration took place to determine if both YMCAs would benefit from combining as one YMCA. The exploration determined that both YMCAs are, in fact, stronger together. Our combined strength is a result of our ability to take advantage of economies of scale and operational efficiencies as well as shared resources such as staff expertise and best practices, to name just a few. Additionally, our combined financial position will allow us to do more and have a greater impact on the communities we serve.
Will our Y have a new name?
Our new name is currently YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties; however, we are interested in hearing creative ideas for a name that speaks to our regional influence and impact, and possible future geographic expansion. Do you have an idea for a name for our merged YMCA?
Why is this merger happening now?
Bruce Black, longtime CEO of Hunterdon County YMCA, retired in March of 2021, and interim CEO Bob Lomauro facilitated a management agreement with YMCA of Bucks County. Both boards of directors considered opportunities to lead their respective Ys toward a future of sustainability, growth and service to the community. Through the careful, diligent process of exploring various options, both boards, as well as Y executive/senior leadership teams, determined that our respective futures will benefit the most as one Y.
Will anything change at the local branches?
As you may have already experienced or observed, leaders and staff of both organizations are already working together in branches and teams to unify staff and practices. There is still work to do, so this process will continue.
What does the leadership team of YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties look like?
The executive leadership team of YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties is led by President/Chief Executive Office Zane Moore and consists of Virginia Doyle, Chief Financial Officer; Tricia Feinthel, Chief Operations Officer; Janet Felder, Chief Human Resources Officer; Debbie Sontupe, Chief Development Officer; and Amanda Wappes, Chief Marketing Officer. As a merged YMCA, they will visit Hunterdon County YMCA locations along with our Bucks locations to meet staff and grow even more familiar with programs and our cause-driven leaders.
Will staff at our Y lose or change their positions? Will I keep reporting to my current supervisor? Will my title change?
In the continual pursuit of providing excellent service, we may shift our staffing structure and/or responsibilities to take advantage of opportunity, efficiency, as well as staff skills and talents. You may have observed some of these shifts have taken place already. As we diligently work to uniform roles and titles across our newly merged Association, there is a possibility that there may be alterations to current.
Will there be new employment opportunities?
One of the benefits of being one Y is the expanded opportunity for career growth for employees in NJ and PA. Keep your ears and eyes out for career opportunities, chances to get involved around our branches, and professional development.
Will my employee benefits change?
There will be changes coming to the HCY benefit structure. One of those changes is an increase towards the YMCA Retirement Plan, from 8% to 12% contribution from the Y. While we anticipate the current HCY medical, vision and dental insurances will remain through the end of this year, we are actively reviewing the scope of the benefits and determining if or when changes will happen. More information will be communicated as we learn more.
Will there be changes to my payroll or how I clock in?
Both HCY and YBC currently have two different payroll schedules and workweeks. It is our intent to combine both into one. YBC has a work week of Thursday to Wednesday. This <payroll schedule> \will go into effect for the first payroll in April. You will receive another correspondence explaining the payroll transition and process.